Pumpkaboo is one of the most fascinating Pokémon introduced in Generation VI. With its spooky pumpkin design, different size variations, and unique evolution method, it stands out from most Ghost- and Grass-type Pokémon. However, many new and returning players often wonder the same question: How do you evolve Pumpkaboo into Gourgeist?
Unlike typical evolution methods—such as leveling up, using evolutionary stones, or high friendship—Pumpkaboo evolves only through trading. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from where to find Pumpkaboo to the exact steps required to evolve it, along with expert tips, size explanations, game-specific locations, and battle strategies.
Let’s dive into the most detailed Pumpkaboo evolution guide you will ever need.
Understanding Pumpkaboo: An Overview of the Spooky Pokémon
Pumpkaboo is a Ghost/Grass-type Pokémon first introduced in Pokémon X and Pokémon Y. Styled like a living Halloween pumpkin, Pumpkaboo carries an eerie yet adorable charm that quickly made it a fan favorite.
Pumpkaboo’s Unique Size Variations
One of the most exciting aspects of this Pokémon is its four different size options:
- Small Size
- Average Size
- Large Size
- Super Size
These sizes are not just visual differences—they actually affect Pumpkaboo’s stats and its evolution outcome. Larger Pumpkaboo forms tend to have higher HP but lower Speed, while smaller ones are typically faster but less tanky.
The size of your Pumpkaboo directly determines the size of the Gourgeist it will evolve into, so choosing the right one matters if you are building a competitive team.
Where to Find Pumpkaboo in Pokémon Games
The location of Pumpkaboo depends on the game you’re playing. Below is a detailed breakdown of where you can catch it across different generations.
Pokémon X and Y
In the games where Pumpkaboo first appeared, it can be found in:
- Route 16 (Tall Grass)
This is the most common and easiest place to find it.
Pokémon Sword and Shield
Pumpkaboo returned in the Galar region with several spawn locations:
- Route 4
- Wild Area – Giant’s Mirror
- Wild Area – Hammerlocke Hills
Its appearance may vary based on weather conditions in some areas. Super Size Pumpkaboo is rarer and has a much lower spawn rate.
Pokémon GO
Pumpkaboo is also available in Pokémon GO during seasonal events, especially around Halloween. Each size has different encounter rates.
Other Games
Depending on the version or event, Pumpkaboo may appear through:
- Max Raid Battles
- Seasonal events
- Mystery Gift distributions
- Transfer from Pokémon HOME
Be sure to check game-specific announcements during special events.
Why Pumpkaboo’s Size Matters Before Evolution
Because Pumpkaboo evolves into Gourgeist of the same size, your choice affects:
- Stats distribution
- HP, Defense, and Speed performance
- Battle role (attacker vs. support vs. tank)
- Moveset strategy
Small & Average Size Pumpkaboo
- Faster
- Easier to outspeed opponents
- Good for offensive builds
Large & Super Size Pumpkaboo
- Higher HP and physical bulk
- Ideal for tank or support roles
- Great for Trick Room teams
Before evolving your Pumpkaboo, consider which battle strategy suits your playstyle.
How to Evolve Pumpkaboo into Gourgeist
Pumpkaboo has one of the simplest yet most unique evolution methods in the Pokémon world—it evolves only through trading. Below are the complete steps.
Step 1: Catch or Obtain the Pumpkaboo You Want to Evolve
Choose the size you desire (Small, Average, Large, or Super Size). Your evolved Gourgeist will match the exact size of your Pumpkaboo.
If you are playing competitively, select one with:
- The right Nature
- Good IVs
- Desired Ability (Insomnia, Frisk, or its Hidden Ability: Pickup)
You can catch multiple Pumpkaboo until you find the perfect one for your strategy.
Step 2: Find a Trade Partner
Because Pumpkaboo evolves only when traded, you’ll need:
- A friend to trade with
OR - An online player through Link Trade, Surprise Trade, or Union Circle (varies by game)
Ensure you have a stable internet connection if trading online.
Important Tip
Trade only with someone you trust—unless you want to risk losing your Pumpkaboo for good. Many trainers form trade-back agreements beforehand.
Step 3: Start the Trade and Trigger the Evolution
Once you initiate the trade, Pumpkaboo will automatically begin evolving as soon as it arrives in your trade partner’s game. You don’t need to perform any special task—simply trading it is enough.
Your trading partner will now see your Pumpkaboo evolve into a Gourgeist of the same size.
Step 4: Trade Back to Get Your Gourgeist
Finally, ask your trade partner to send your newly evolved Gourgeist back to you. This completes the evolution process and ensures the Gourgeist is now part of your team.
Always confirm the trade-back before starting to avoid misunderstandings.
Additional Tips for Evolving Pumpkaboo Efficiently
Here are some expert strategies to make the evolution smoother:
Use Link Codes
If you’re playing online, using a custom link code reduces the risk of trading with the wrong person.
Breed for Perfect Stats Before Evolution
Breeding allows you to:
- Pass down Natures
- Inherit high IVs
- Control size (size is inherited a percentage of the time)
This is great for competitive or shiny hunters.
Level Up Before Evolution (Optional)
Pumpkaboo learns certain moves earlier than Gourgeist. You may want to level it up to learn:
- Shadow Sneak
- Razor Leaf
- Bullet Seed
Then evolve it when ready.
Benefits of Evolving Pumpkaboo into Gourgeist
Evolving Pumpkaboo into Gourgeist isn’t just about completing your Pokédex—it brings several strategic advantages.
Improved Stats
Gourgeist gains:
- Higher Attack
- Higher Defense
- Better overall bulk
- More utility for competitive battles
Better Move Options
Gourgeist can learn powerful moves such as:
- Phantom Force
- Seed Bomb
- Leech Seed
- Will-O-Wisp
- Trick-or-Treat (Signature Move)
Role Flexibility
Gourgeist works well as:
- A physical attacker
- A defensive wall
- A Trick Room sweeper
- A utility/annoying support Pokémon
How to Use Gourgeist in Battle
Here are recommended strategies depending on size:
Small & Average Size Gourgeist
Best for:
- Fast builds
- Physical sweepers
- Support moves like Will-O-Wisp
Large & Super Size Gourgeist
Best for:
- Tanky builds
- Trick Room teams
- High HP walling strategies
Common Mistakes Trainers Make with Pumpkaboo
Avoid these pitfalls:
- Choosing a size without understanding stat differences
- Forgetting to trade back
- Evolving before learning important moves
- Trading without using a private link code
- Not checking its Ability before evolution
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pumpkaboo evolve with a stone?
No. Pumpkaboo evolves only through trading.
Does the size change after evolution?
No. The size remains exactly the same.
Can Pumpkaboo evolve in Pokémon GO?
Yes, but the method may differ depending on seasonal events or candy requirements.
Can you stop Pumpkaboo from evolving?
You cannot stop evolution mid-trade, but you can choose not to trade it until ready.
Conclusion: Evolving Pumpkaboo Is Easy Once You Know How
Even though Pumpkaboo has a unique evolution method, the process becomes incredibly simple once you understand that it evolves only through trading. Whether you’re aiming for a fast Small-size Gourgeist or a tanky Super-size version, choosing the right Pumpkaboo and trading it with a trusted partner ensures you get the perfect evolution.
Now that you know exactly how to evolve Pumpkaboo, where to find it, and how its size affects your gameplay, you are fully equipped to add this ghostly pumpkin Pokémon to your team.
Good luck—and happy trading!